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Demographic Analysis of Jackson Park Highlands: A Predominantly African American Neighborhood in Chicago
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Jackson Park Highlands, a neighborhood in Chicago, Illinois, is classified as a "Low Diversity" community with a "Black Majority." As of 2022, African Americans constitute 85% of the population. The median income in 2022 was $37,701. The neighborhood is recognized for its historic district status, featuring large, early 20th-century homes.
Over the past decade, Jackson Park Highlands has maintained its status as a "Black Majority" neighborhood. The Black population decreased slightly from 94% in 2013 to 85% in 2022. The White population increased from 1% in 2013 to 11% in 2022. Small increases in Asian and Hispanic populations, and those identifying as two or more races, have been observed. The neighborhood remains in the "Low Diversity" classification due to the dominance of a single racial group.
The economic landscape of Jackson Park Highlands has shown fluctuations. Median income ranged from $21,242 in 2013 to $38,398 in 2020. There has been a general upward trend in median income, with 2022's figure of $37,701 representing an improvement from the early 2010s. The population increased from 1,603 in 2013 to 2,583 in 2022.
The slight diversification trend in Jackson Park Highlands aligns with broader national patterns of increased racial mixing in urban neighborhoods. However, the persistence of such a high Black majority is less common nationally, especially in neighborhoods experiencing economic growth.
The income fluctuations and recent improvements in Jackson Park Highlands mirror broader economic recovery trends post-2008 recession. The volatility suggests local factors at play, possibly related to Chicago's specific urban development policies or economic challenges.
The neighborhood's combination of historic housing stock and predominantly Black population presents a case study in urban demographics. It suggests a community that has maintained its cultural identity while potentially beginning to attract a more diverse population, possibly due to its architectural appeal and improving economic conditions.
Jackson Park Highlands remains categorized as a "Low Diversity" area with a strong "Black Majority." Subtle shifts in demographics and economic indicators point to a neighborhood in the early stages of change. These trends warrant continued observation to determine if they represent the beginnings of a more significant demographic and economic transformation in the coming years.
